Authorities in New York have apprehended Rex Heuermann, a 59-year-old architect, as the primary suspect in the infamous Gilgo Beach serial killings. Heuermann, a married father of two, resided in Massapequa Park, Long Island, and commuted to Manhattan for work at his firm, RH Consultants & Associates. He faces charges related to the deaths of Maureen Brainard-Barnes, Melissa Barthelemy, Megan Waterman, and Amber Costello, whose remains were discovered between 2010 and 2011 along Ocean Parkway.

Neighbors described Heuermann as a “neighborhood creep” and a “recluse.” Michael Musto, a long-time resident of Massapequa Park who frequently shared the commute with Heuermann, recounted the suspect's quiet nature and noted the dilapidated state of his home. Another neighbor recalled a disturbing encounter where Heuermann inquired about his brother's emotional response at their father's funeral.

Heuermann's background reveals he graduated from Berner High School in 1981 and has worked in Manhattan since 1987. A 2022 YouTube interview showcases Heuermann discussing his architectural work and his approach to problem-solving, emphasizing the importance of interpersonal skills. He also mentioned his father's career as an aerospace engineer and how he continued to use his father's workshop.

The investigation linked Heuermann to the murders through DNA evidence retrieved from a discarded pizza box, which matched a hair found on one of the victims. Additionally, investigators connected Heuermann to burner phones used before and after the killings. The bail application suggests that materials used in the crimes may have originated from Heuermann’s residence. The arrest follows the discovery of 11 sets of human remains near Gilgo Beach. While four victims have been identified as those Heuermann is charged with murdering, the others include Shannan Gilbert, Jessica Taylor, Valerie Mack, a toddler, and a young Asian male. The search for Gilbert, a sex worker who disappeared after fleeing a client's home, led to the grim discoveries.